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Monday, July 15, 2013

Church devotion: Called to Belong - Romans 1:6

Romans 1:6 And
you also are among those who are called to belong to Jesus Christ.

Yesterday, we had a couple join our
church during the worship service. They have been coming to our congregation
for over a year. They were brought to us by God through the Creative
Expressions ministry that our church presents. Their teenage daughter is talented
and she enjoys being involved in our theater groups. It is a joy to have them
all become part of who we are; it is wonderful to give them a place where they each
feel that they belong.

Throughout the week, we all meet
people who are just trying to get through life. They struggle with keeping
their families together, holding down a job, or advancing their careers. At
times, we all feel isolated and vulnerable, overwhelmed and alone. We wonder
what life is all about and question whether it has any real meaning. During
those ‘ontological’ moments, having a church family can fill the emptiness we experience.
Being part of a faith community and finding a place where we belong, can bring
about a great deal of well-being to our hearts and minds, as well as our bodies
and souls.

If you’re feeling lonely today, then
please think about seeking a regular community of Christ’s people. Allow
yourself to be called by Christ to a congregation where you can find meaning
and purpose for your life. Permit the Holy Spirit to break down any
self-imposed barriers or individual anxieties that you may have about fitting
in. Let Jesus do for you what He does best: let Him reach out to you and lead
you; let Him restore you and love you.

Questions for personal reflection

Am I currently feeling
isolated and alone? Will I allow Jesus to help me find a sacred place where I
can belong?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, You know us completely
and understand all that we are currently feeling. Take us by the hand and lead
us each day. Open our hearts and minds to the blessings of Your Gospel. Allow
us to seek and find a community of faith where we can truly belong. In Your
Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John
Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If
you would like to comment on today’s message, please send him an email to traqair@aol.com.